Key Senate Democrats to watch

With the U.S. House of Representatives paralyzed by the GOP’s Tea Party caucus, the Senate could play a crucial role in finding ways to break the gridlock and taking the lead on key legislation for the rest of President Obama’s tenure in office. Not to mention that some of the potential 2016 presidential contenders who are generating the most buzz right now—from Elizabeth Warren to Ted Cruz—are denizens of the upper chamber. And as if that weren’t enough, the battle for control of the Senate figures to be the major storyline of next fall’s midterms, with most analysts predicting a down-to-the-wire race that could hinge on one or two contests.

That’s why it’s worth getting to know some of the key Senate players on both sides—as well as a few of the candidates who may soon be joining them. With a view to 2014 and beyond, here are some of the Democrat senators—plus one high-profile candidate—to keep an eye on.